CommonGroundSwap.gifAvailable AssistanceLocal departments of social services in each county and city administer benefit programs supported by federal, state, and local funds. If you have any questions or would like more details, please contact the Virginia Department of Social Services at (804) 726-7000 or visit their website.

Aid to Families with Dependent Children / Foster Care (AFDC-FC) Financial aid is also provided for children eligible for Aid to Families with Dependent Children / Foster Care (AFDC-FC) who have been removed from their homes and placed in the custody of a local social service board.

Disaster Assistance The Individual and Family Grants Program gives financial help to victims of major disasters when the president declares that an emergency or disaster area exists. Qualifying individuals and families receive aid to repair, replace, or rebuild necessary provisions that were destroyed or damaged as a result of disaster.

Medicaid & FAMIS Medicaid and the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan (FAMIS) are medical assistance programs that make direct payments to health care service providers for eligible individuals and families who are unable to pay for needed medical services. Medicaid and FAMIS have different income limits and non-financial requirements. When someone applies for medical assistance, they will be evaluated for either program.

If you want more information about Medicaid, contact the local Department of Social Services at (540) 387-6087 or visit the Department of Medical Assistance Services website for more details. Children and pregnant women who do not meet the Medicaid eligibility income requirements may meet the FAMIS eligibility requirements.

Nursing Home Care The Nursing Home Care Program provides assistance to individuals who need nursing facility care and cannot afford the cost of care. Application is made at the local Department of Social Services where the individuals resided in Virginia prior to entering the nursing facility. Eligibility is based on categorical requirements, income, resources, and other non-financial criteria.

SNAP (Food Stamp Program)This federal program supplements the food budgets of low-income households to help assure needy persons a nutritionally adequate diet. Eligibility is determined by financial need, income resources, and non-financial criteria such as student status and work registration.

In October 2009, Virginia officially changed the name of the Food Stamp Program to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As you access information on food assistance, you may see either of these names. They are the same program. If you are currently receiving food stamps, you will not need to reapply for SNAP.

Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF)
Financial assistance is paid to certain relatives responsible for children who have been deprived of parental support due to the responsible parent's death, absence, or incapacity. Financial need and the age of the child are basic criteria for determining eligibility and payment amounts.